§ Mr. Eadieasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will seek to arrange a meeting between his Department, the National Coal Board and the National Union of Mineworkers to discuss the sinking of new coal mines in order to boost coal production.
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§ Mr. EmeryNo. There has been a remarkable recovery in production and stocks since the strike and the emphasis must remain on improving the productivity of existing mines. I must look to the National Coal Board to advise me if and when it thinks it necessary to sink a new mine to meet demand.